It might not have been earth-shattering news, but Tuesday’s story on the mobile consultation unit of Initiatives St. Martin was refreshing. The project “My Quarter, My Business” is obviously straightforward and small-scale in approach, but could nevertheless have a big impact.
People of the island tend to be pretty creative and there are no doubt a number of good ideas for business ventures out there that only need the right guidance. Lack of information and knowledge on possibilities, facilities, restrictions, rules and regulations is one of the main obstacles budding entrepreneurs often face.
A simple adapted van that can seat half a dozen persons inside may not seem like all that much, but for people who don’t really know where to go or how to begin it can make a world of difference. The local tourism economy is sometimes seen as a limiting factor in terms of diversity, but there are plenty of prospects for activities that supplement what is currently available.
Going into the districts also gives the programme a grass-roots quality by taking it directly to residents, greatly increasing the chance of success. Areas where advice is often needed include obtaining financing, which the professionals involved will provide.
That there is a demand for such services already became clear when the organisation held eight conferences and took part in arranging six workshops during 2015. Of the 115 individual cases dealt with, 10 were employed, 56 looking for a job (31 for more than a year) and 10 receiving French social assistance, while 17 were in the process of starting a business and 10 were in training; 21 gave up their projects for various reasons.
The idea is obviously empowering more people to shape their future. Instead of just giving someone a fish to eat, really helping would be teaching them to catch their own.
